How does the music scene in Asia differ from other parts of the world?

Music knows no borders; it is a universal language that resonates uniquely in every corner of the globe. What's fascinating about music is its ability to weave a rich tapestry of diverse styles, reflecting the myriad cultures and ethnicities it embraces.

In Asia, the music scene here is a vibrant kaleidoscope. While K-pop has long held sway, other regional genres are increasingly gaining prominence. From the catchy melodies of J-pop to upbeat Filipino music, the infectious beats of Thai hits, and the burgeoning sounds of Vietnamese music, Asia's musical landscape is as diverse as it is dynamic. And, of course, in Singapore, homegrown talents add their own flavour to the mix.

To explore what sets Asia's music scene apart on the global stage, we turned to the artists gathered at Music Matters Live in Singapore. As a cornerstone of CreatorWeek 2024, Music Matters Live serves as a vital platform for emerging and established artists from across the Asia-Pacific region to showcase their talents. Over four exhilarating nights, more than 60 artists from 16 countries, including Singapore, Thailand, Australia, the Philippines, and Japan, took to the stage across seven venues.

We had the opportunity to speak with some of the singers and musicians performing, where they shared their insights on the qualities that define Asia's musical identity.

Shazza, from Singapore

"I personally associate Asian pop music with the prevalence of culture at its core. We have unique genres of music such as K-pop, J-pop, Bollywood music, and many, many more that make use of so many different influences in the most beautiful way. That blend in itself feels very unique to Asia, and it’s something I really appreciate about working in this music sphere."

Ben Swissa, from Australia

"I think there is something beautiful and energising about music fans in Asia. I also think that Asia, being so close to Australia, is a place I would like to spend more time in. A lot of beautiful people and cultures that I would love to connect with here and share my music with. Everyone is so lovely and really passionate about live music, it’s exciting. That connection is so important to me and I can’t wait to come back and tour."

BINI, from Philippines

"We think the music scene in Asia is able to share its culture and its people. It reflects a part of who we are as a community, our history and our values. It’s also noticeable that Asia is filled with different varieties of pop groups who mirror each other's movements and harmonize together while dancing. We can say that groups train not just in Music but in all aspects of entertainment.

In the Philippines, we try to include our different dialects in our lyrics and we also try to incorporate our culture into the outfits, music, and videos we put out. At the same time, we try to bring back the elements of old music and mix it in with the new. But we also think that music is subjective and every continent's music scene has its own uniqueness to it."

Emma Dilemma, from New Zealand

"I have a very limited experience of performing in Asia – my trip to Music Matters in Singapore was my first ever time! What I did notice was insane levels of professionalism from the production, tech and organisation crews – a lot of kindness, patience and commitment to putting together the best shows possible; for both the artists and the audiences. That really made me feel safe, supported and excited about my shows despite any technical hiccups leading up to them!

On the artists’ side of things; camaraderie and genuine support between all of the acts - which is very different to the tall poppy syndrome a lot of artists seem to operate from down under. On my perspective on the fans; genuine enthusiasm and attention! I assume most - if not all – of the music fans that approached me throughout the week while I was out and about exploring CQ and after my two shows had never heard of me before this festival was announced - but everyone who approached me knew the lyrical content of my songs and what my kaupapa (cause, principles, intention) is as an artist and that really made me feel seen, and so honoured to be connecting with people in the way that I intend.

Tldr; when can I come back?!"